Thursday, July 29, 2010 at 12:10AM Massive oil spill on the Kalamazoo River
One of the biggest concerns about the spill is the potential health risks. We're told the oil did not make it into the water table. That means your drinking water should be safe. But again, the health officials want everyone to stay out of the Kalamazoo River and stay away from the oil. If you do touch it wash it off with soap and water right away. The fumes are a bigger issue. They're making people sick. If you experience any extreme symptoms call your doctor right away. A big concern is benzene levels. Benzene is a colorless, flammable chemical. Scientists say it's at an acceptable level for air quality now, but it's not acceptable for long-term exposure. The hotter it gets the worse the benzene danger will become. The spill is also taking a toll on local wildlife. Fish, geese, muskrats and other animals are all turning up on shore covered in oil. Workers with Circle D Wildlife Refuge from Kalamazoo County rescued more than a dozen geese and swans Tuesday. Some had clogged glands from the oil. They also ingested it when cleaning themselves. While it's tough to watch them suffer, wildlife officials say you should not try to take care of the animals on your own. Instead, get in touch with local officials and let them know where you're seeing the issues. They're asking you not to call 911. Instead, Enbridge Energy has set up a hotline. The number is 1-800-306-6837 1-800-306-6837 . If you don't get through the first time, leave a message and someone will get back to you. More
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